8 minute read
Navigating cyber threats in space in the age of commercialization
The rapid commercialization of space has ushered in an era of unparalleled opportunities for technological advancement and innovation. Breakthroughs in lightweight composites and advanced materials have enabled the design and construction of more efficient spacecraft and satellites, while reduced costs have led to a significant surge in satellite deployment. However, amidst this significant progress lies a pressing challenge that demands our attention - the complex world of cybersecurity.
Neil Sherwin-Peddie, Head of Space Security at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
As private companies, start-ups, and governments venture into space, the intricacies of space operations and the interconnectedness of space systems have become fertile ground for potential cyber adversaries, and these continue to loom in the space sector. The implications of these attacks are self-evident; however, it is crucial to address these challenges to ensure the resilience and protection of galactical systems through a mass team effort.
The rise of cybersecurity threats in space
In general, the space industry has been significantly slow to adapt to the changes brought about by rapid commercialization, leading to vulnerabilities in the system. Some spacecraft still rely on outdated software, like Fortran, and operating systems that haven’t been updated for decades. Each satellite and ground station now represents a potential target, making robust security measures throughout the space supply chain an absolute necessity.
Additionally, cybercriminals are becoming bolder than ever before. The allure of the space sector to these criminals stems from the fact that satellites function as platforms with embedded systems and interfaces, akin to enterprise networks. Recent incidents, such as attacks on Viasat via supply chain vulnerabilities and threats against Starlink low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, underscore the vulnerabilities inherent in existing satellites. Therefore, the urgency to enhance cybersecurity measures and fortify the resilience of space systems against potential threats cannot be overstated.
The biggest threat in the space industry: supply chain management
The most significant threat facing the space industry currently lies in supply chain management and attacks. The commercialization of the sector, coupled with complexities in its supply chain, has led to concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities. According to global research, supply chain attacks surged by over 50 percent in the second half of 2022, further emphasizing the urgent need for action to mitigate these threats.
Additionally, organizations that rely primarily on off-the-shelf purchases from third-party suppliers face even more complexities in verifying security measures. The Viasat attack was a great example of this as it exposed supply chain vulnerabilities and highlighted the need for organizations to consider manufacturing certain components in-house, such as third-party modems and encryption platforms.
In light of the evolving threat landscapes, organizations must proactively address supply chain risks, by implementing robust supply chain security measures and forging strategic partnerships with trusted suppliers.
This is critical to bolstering cybersecurity in the space sector. As per the DCMS 2022 Security Breaches Survey, only 13 percent of respondents reported reviewing the cybersecurity of their immediate suppliers, while only seven percent went deeper into their supply chains. Ensuring that security measures are embedded and followed throughout the contract lifecycle is imperative.
By prioritizing this transparency and accountability across the supply chain, the space industry can strengthen its resilience against cyber threats and safeguard the integrity of space missions.
Mitigating supply chain risks through emerging technologies
To begin making the right steps in addressing supply chain risks, organizations are currently exploring technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, to enhance supply chain visibility, traceability, and security. Regular security assessments and the application of these technologies greatly help to identify vulnerabilities and provide real-time monitoring of the space supply chain.
For instance, at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, we embrace the DevSecOps lifecycle, promoting an agile approach to integrate the penetration test components regularly. This constant review cycle when bringing components together supports regular integration and penetration testing to ensure that operations are running as efficiently as possible. Multi-sensor satellite clusters, such as Azalea, also provide a more secure and innovative solution to conventional, single-purpose satellites. Existing space-based sensors require multiple terabytes of data to be transmitted to Earth before processing, a method that takes a significant amount of time and can be quite inflexible. Utilizing innovative technologies that exist in these multi-sensor satellites allows organizations to prioritize which data to analyze and also boost their ability to understand any emerging threats.
Another critical part of the Azalea program is the development of the Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC). To ensure effective cybersecurity defense, it’s crucial to have a holistic understanding of data and processes in their entirety. The CSOC will serve as a single platform for consolidating information from different sources like the Space Operations Centre and Enterprise Operating Centres. This collective platform will help to detect potential threats and maintain a clear understanding of the overall health and security of the entire infrastructure.
Encryption also plays a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring the effectiveness of its security even in the event of breaches. Continuous monitoring of network activity and data transmission can identify suspicious activities early on, mitigating potential risks thus acting as a powerful ally for organizations.
The bigger picture - looking at innovation in the space race
The space race is continually driving innovation, and multi-sensor satellite clusters present a pivotal opportunity to enhance cybersecurity in space. Among them, the Azalea multi-sensor satellite cluster stands out as a trailblazing example of cutting-edge technology, set to launch into low Earth orbit in 2025.
Azalea’s advanced design incorporates a diverse array of sensors, including visual, radar, and radio frequency, allowing it to collect comprehensive and real-time data from space. The onboard machine learning capabilities are the key to Azalea’s capabilities, as they enable the satellite to process and analyze the gathered data on edge processors while still in orbit, cutting processing times down from days to near real-time. By performing data analysis on board, the need to transfer massive amounts of data back to Earth for processing is eliminated. This not only saves valuable time but also reduces the vulnerability associated with data transfers between space and ground stations. This near-instantaneous data processing and intelligence delivery empower space missions with faster and more accurate insights, essential in today’s fast-paced space environment.
As space missions become more complex and data-driven, Azalea and similar multi-sensor satellite clusters pave the way for a more secure and efficient space environment. The fusion of advanced sensor capabilities and machine learning technologies represents a paradigm shift in space exploration, offering unprecedented opportunities to tackle evolving cybersecurity challenges. With Azalea and other innovative satellite clusters leading the way, the space industry can bolster its cybersecurity resilience and stay ahead in the space race.
The space race is a team sport
Regardless of how innovative the solution is, the key to tackling threats lies in doubling down on collaboration. In the face of dynamic cyber threats and the new space race, the space sector must foster collaborative partnerships for information sharing. Sharing threat intelligence, best practices, and security information among key industry stakeholders, governmental agencies, and international partners can undoubtedly strengthen the overall security of the space supply chain.
UK agencies, alongside BAE Systems, the UK Space Agency, European Space Agency, and the wider ecosystem are already coming together to gain better visibility and address security concerns. As we enter a new era in space exploration, we’re met with many opportunities to adopt more agile and adaptable best practices to counter any upcoming threats and these can only be successful with effective cooperation and collaboration, not only in the UK, but globally.
Emerging cybersecurity trends in space exploration
As the commercialization of space continues to evolve, emerging cybersecurity trends have begun to shape the industry’s future. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are finding applications in threat detection and anomaly identification. Autonomous response mechanisms can neutralize potential threats in real-time, reducing human intervention.
Moreover, quantum-resistant encryption is gaining attention as a way to protect data from potential future quantum computing attacks. Such encryption ensures that even with the power of quantum computers, hackers cannot breach the security of sensitive space data.
Additionally, space agencies are investing in improving the cybersecurity posture of their personnel through rigorous training programs. These programs help employees understand the evolving threat landscape and instill best practices for protecting sensitive information.
Looking ahead, the number of cyber threats in space will only continue to grow and become more complex. The ongoing cyber threats in the space sector demand a proactive response. By adopting cutting-edge technologies, integrating encryption, and monitoring, and fostering collaboration, the UK space industry can effectively navigate evolving cybersecurity challenges, stay ahead in the space race, and build a safer future.
With the increasing commercialization of space, organizations must strengthen their supply chain security through the adoption of best practices and emerging technologies. Through collaborative efforts and a keen focus on cybersecurity, the space sector can protect its advancements, explore further frontiers, and ensure the secure and prosperous future of space exploration.
